Deck Construction
Written by No Doubt Marketing
Deck construction takes more than just a general idea for a deck design and a go-get-em attitude. If you are going to go to the trouble of building a deck you will want to be sure you are doing two things. One is staying within your local building code guidelines and second, constructing a safe deck.
Building a deck doesn't mean you can make the deck as large as you want and then support it by 2 simple posts. That method is dangerous. The weight of wood alone adds up and when you put human weight on top of that you will want to be sure your deck is not going to collapse. Constructing your deck correctly to begin with can eliminate that worry.
When you hire an installer, ask for references. Believe it or not there are also many careless people who happen to work in deck construction. "Professionally built" decks have collapsed as well as home made ones. Ask and check references and even quiz them on safety…particularly their safety precautions. It may sound odd but if you see a well-built and safely constructed deck on a house you pass by, go to the door and ask who did it. Actually seeing quality work is the best way to know that you are going to get that same quality work.
It is not just the weight of the deck to consider. Remember that the deck attaches to your home. If it is not done correctly it can only damage the deck but also your home which can add up to thousands of dollars in damage for repair alone (not to mention if someone gets hurt). Building your own safe deck is possible but it is recommended that you spend a reasonable amount of money to consult or hire an architect to ensure you build your deck safely. You will also want to have the proper tools and materials for a well built deck. Among other things you will need a level, saw, hammer, and measuring devices. The deck is no place to scrimp and save on costs. Injury from deck collapse is all too real and happens more than you may think.
When checking your zoning laws and codes remember that there are ways around them. If you plan to attach the deck to your home then the rules will be much more strict than if you plan to build a freestanding deck right outside your home. The clincher is whether the deck attaches or not. Regardless of what type of deck you build, be sure you build or have it built safely. You want your deck to last a long time and the idea of the deck is for relaxation and entertainment so have it built right the first time.
